In a recent report Alan Johnson, England 's Education Secretary, stated that "staying on rates must improve" in education, claiming that it is unacceptable for a 16 year old to be unemployed and to leave compulsory education.
New proposals, such as the 'EMA scheme' (Education Maintenance Allowance) have already been set up in an attempt to increase the number of young people staying on at school. The scheme works by giving a maximum of £30 per week to pupils staying on after the leaving age. The scheme has proved very successful, as not only have staying on rates improved, but pupils' attendance has also increased.
The downside to this however is the fact that it is means-tested, and thus the supposedly 'more privileged' are left out of the scheme. This especially puts pressure on middle-income families to provide for their children. Another downside is that young people may keep on schooling for the wrong reasons; just for the money.
However there are also other plans to provide training opportunities and apprenticeships for people who wish to leave school. The aim of this is to give post-16 year olds a choice in a learning programme that interests them the most.
I think this is a good idea, seeing as it gives someone the opportunity to remain in 'education', even if they don't enjoy, or simply feel unsuited to the school system. After all, everyone likes to learn, but no one likes to be taught!
For many, the idea of an increased leaving age can be a daunting and scary one. For some, schooling has never been a pleasant experience, but I think with this more open ended approach, staying in education seems more inviting, and gives young people the chance to specialise in what they want.
About this article
This article was written by David Mcreynolds, 16, and published on the Reach for the Sky website.
